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Traveling to the Show

The Bead&Button Show takes place at the Wisconsin Center, 400 West Wisconsin Ave, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Classes are also held at the Hyatt Regency Downtown Milwaukee and the Hilton Milwaukee City Center. For a city with the ideal mix of business and pleasure, there's no place better than Milwaukee. Charming millions of visitors every year, Milwaukee plays host to guests looking for a fun getaway as well as those in town to get deals done. When you come to the Bead&Button Show you will see that Milwaukee really knows how to have a good time.

Downtown Milwaukee, WI

Travel Information
For information on hotels, airport travel, parking and group tours visit one of the pages below.

About Milwaukee
Milwaukee is the largest city in the state of Wisconsin and the 31th largest city (by population) in the United States. Located approximately 90 miles north of Chicago, on the shores of beautiful Lake Michigan, Milwaukee offers a diverse and lively cultural scene. This Midwestern city offers arts and entertainment, coupled with an exciting variety of shopping choices and eclectic dining at all price levels. Milwaukee's big-city advantages are enhanced by a friendly, small-town spirit, and old-world charm.

Area Attractions
Looking for something to do while in Milwaukee? This city offers a wide variety of attractions and activities for all age groups. Take a stroll along the river walk, home to over a dozen restaurants, bars, and shops. Visit Historic Third Ward, located just minutes south of downtown Milwaukee. Ride the free trolley to get a tour of some of the best spots in the area. And much more!

A complete guide of area attractions can be found on the Visit Milwaukee website.

Teacher Tips
Make this year's Show your best yet with these clever tips from past Instructors.

Bring simple and nutritious snacks — or hit up the grocery upon arrival. Build time into schedule for this so you don’t have to eat out every meal. Rooms have refrigerators and microwaves are available at the Hyatt.

Stay healthy: Make sure to drink plenty of water and plan times for meals to keep your strength and stamina in tip-top shape. We learn better when we are well-hydrated and healthily fed. It's time to bead, so make the most out of the experience!

Bring layers of clothing so you are comfortable on your own terms.

Shopping Tips

Make a list and set a budget, but build in a contingency for that special treasure or on-trend, must-have find you hadn’t anticipated.

Use a wheeled tote if you’re stocking up on heavy tools, supplies, or large quantities of products.

Skip the Sherpa. Check your bags with the volunteers from the Loose Bead Society.

Highlight the Marketplace Map to easily find your “go to” vendors.

Store your resale card and business cards in the back of your name badge for easy access.

View the Bead Dreams Display for inspiration.

“Shop” the Silent Auction and support cancer research Saturday, June 10.

Consider shipping your purchases home to save on luggage charges.

Classroom Savvy

Layer clothing for the most comfort while in classrooms and at the Show.

Take lots of notes or make sketches, or take images — but ask first! Images or sketches will help refresh your memory of things you would have forgotten.

Class etiquette is super important at the Bead&Button Show. Be nice and play well with others. If you sense your neighbor needs a break from talking, create some quiet time at your table.

To have the most fun and successful class experience, pay close attention to the particular class prerequisites and supplies to bring with you. If you aren't sure about your experience level, you can always contact the teacher directly and he/she can help guide you.

General Guidance
Plan a full class schedule but also make time to enjoy the shopping and the city. Take a break and ride the trolley around Milwaukee; you will return refreshed and enjoy the week more. (Adrienne Gaskell)

Going to the special events: Oh my goodness, there is so much to do! There are workshops and classes, Moonlight Madness, the Marketplace and Meet the Teachers Reception, along with a multitude of other events. Plan your moves in advance to get the most out of the Show. This is a time to meet teachers, connect with vendors in the Marketplace and make new friends. (Cynthia Rutledge)

I always try to bring my best self, ready to learn and have fun. This is such a special event with people who share my passion. My goal is to be totally present and enjoy the fun together. (Laura Andrews)

And mostly, come ready to enjoy a great experience! The Bead&Button Show is like summer camp: A place to have fun, learn, eat with friends, and indulge in our favorite activity without the responsibilities of home! (Nancy Cain)